The project incorporates GlassPoint Solar’s single transit trough technology, specifically designed for rugged oil field environments. The solar facility uses a glasshouse enclosure to protect and seal the solar mirror from the elements, including dust, dirt, sand, and humidity.

GlassPoint said the protected environment allows for the use of ultralight, low-cost reflective materials.

Other features of its system noted by GlassPoint are:

• Creation of a protected environment, where high-performance, front-surface reflectors are now practical and durable for the first time.

• Automated washing equipment that eliminates manual cleaning and operator intervention, further reducing costs and water use as well as worker health and safety concerns.

• Delivery of steam at a constant price for the entire 30-year life of the system.

GlassPoint built the solar unit in less than 6 weeks and estimates that its facililty on the 21Z lease will supply during the day about an average 1 million btu/hr of solar heat and replace 25-80% of the steam generated by gas-fired boilers on the lease.

In a February presentation, Berry Petroleum noted that it acquired the 21Z lease in 2009 and that it considered the development of the lease as a next generation heavy oil project. It said these projects have higher viscosity crude and will require higher steam-oil ratios and tighter spacing than traditional Midway-Sunset developments.

Berry completed a pilot on the 21Z lease in 2010 and has targeted a 50-well development program for the lease in 2011.